However, the main danger of varicose veins is blood stasis and the development of thrombophlebitis, ie disorders of the circulatory system. For the complete treatment of the disease, a number of measures are used, the most required and effective of which are drug treatment and surgery. In addition, ointments and gels for varicose veins are often used as an adjunctive treatment, and we will talk about it.
Purpose and types of ointments for varicose veins
First of all, I would like to note that ointments and gels are used at all stages of the disease and are intended to provide a different effect depending on the duration of application:
- In the early stages of varicose veins, gels and ointments can stop the development of the pathological process, prevent deformation of blood vessels and thinning of the vessel walls.
- In the later stages, the goal is also to prevent the disease from progressing. In addition, local products help improve blood circulation, prevent severe congestion, and aim to combat symptoms, including pain, swelling, cramps, changes in skin pigmentation, and more.
- In addition, the use of ointments and gels is often prescribed by doctors after surgical treatment of varicose veins. In this case, it is possible to heal not only the surface tissues, but also the internal structures, to accelerate the rehabilitation process. In addition, depending on the properties of the drug, certain gels and ointments eliminate possible swelling, reduce inflammation and stop the side effects caused by certain types of surgery.
There are several groups of ointments and gels. The choice of drug should be based on the following clinical signs:
- Increased leg fatigue, painful sensations, feeling of tightness;
- Swollen veins (this symptom accompanies almost all stages of varicose veins, the severity of the symptom is important);
- Swelling, intensity;
- Convulsions, usually at night;
- Changes in skin pigmentation may cause the skin to turn blue.
It is also important to understand that the use of ointments or gels may not cure varicose veins, but these funds can actually reduce the intensity of individual symptoms, improve the condition of blood vessels and prevent the development of pathology.
In addition, you should consult a phlebologist before using any of the medications described below.
Phlebotonics
Drugs of this group form the basis of medical treatment of varicose veins, are prescribed both in tablet form and in the form of ointments. These drugs are designed to improve blood circulation, which prevents stagnant processes. Increases the flow of lymph and vascular tone, to some extent reduces the intensity of edema, while eliminating the feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulants
Their main feature is the thinning of blood, which is very important in certain stages of varicose veins and in cases where the pathology persists against the background of increased platelet concentrations in the blood. Given that the blood is less viscous, the process of circulation through the vascular bed is facilitated, respectively, the circulatory process is normalized and stagnant processes are eliminated. In addition, anticoagulants prevent blood clotting.
Given the described properties, drugs of this group help to reduce edema in the legs, relieve pain by relieving congestion and combat feelings of tightness and fatigue. In addition, anticoagulants prevent the development of complications such as thrombophlebitis or the formation of trophic ulcers.
Anti-inflammatory
Based on the diagnostic information obtained, a phlebologist may prescribe topical anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments or gels to a patient with varicose veins.
A shining example is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which effectively relieve pain and have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointments based on natural ingredients
Such drugs are usually prescribed in the early stages of varicose veins, used in the treatment of pregnant women, or to replace the previously described drugs to interrupt the course of treatment.
The above is due to the fact that products based on natural, often plant components, move less. In addition, unlike the groups of drugs used in a course, it can be used continuously, after which it is important to take a break.
The difference between ointments and gels
In fact, medicated ointments and gels from pharmacies are similar drugs. They are applied in the same way when they are drugs of the same group, if they have the same therapeutic effect, and also contain the same chemical components.
As for the differences, they are few:
- Ointments are made on the basis of both vegetable and animal oils. It should also be understood that the active ingredients in the ointments do not completely dissolve, preserving their original chemical structure. Due to these properties, the ointment should be better rubbed into your skin and then wait 5 to 15 minutes until it is completely absorbed, otherwise the therapeutic effect will be incomplete;
- A distinctive feature of gels is that they are water-based and completely soluble in medicinal components. Due to these factors, the gel is absorbed faster.
As mentioned earlier, any medication, including ointment and gel for varicose veins for external use, should be prescribed by the attending physician.